A Swedish parish in Strömsund has prepared emergency burial grounds for potential war or crisis situations. The church wants temporary resting places ready for possible casualties. Church officials consider this part of their civic duty.
Property manager Pär Gidlöv explained their responsibility. "It is our task to provide grave sites," he said in a statement.
The Swedish Church requires enough land to bury five percent of Sweden's population. Strömsund municipality must accommodate 500 burial spots.
"Here at Strömsund Forest Cemetery alone, we have space for 250-300 graves," Gidlöv noted.
The parish plans to handle burials even without electricity, water, or fuel. They have prepared additional measures beyond just the burial grounds.
Preparedness coordinator Tommy Persson described their preparations. "We must make about 500 crosses in advance and prepare to dig graves by hand. Then we need about 100 shovels too."
The Strömsund parish also works to become a "safe house" during emergencies. The church would provide food, water, and heat when other locations cannot.
This preparation reflects Sweden's increased focus on civil defense since joining NATO. The country has been strengthening emergency response systems nationwide.
Local authorities across Sweden have received similar preparedness requirements. The measures represent a significant shift in Sweden's approach to national security.